Ashok Chakra | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sqn Ldr | Rakesh Sharma 12396 F(P) | Unit : Indo Soviet Space | Award Date 30 Aug 84 | Announced 26 Jan 85 | |
Details : | In January 1982, when it was decided that an Indian would go into space on a Soviet space ship, Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma volunteered for this very challenging mission. After a very rigorous selection process, which included a most exacting medical test, he was selected as one of the two cosmonaut candidates from among 150 highly qualified and experienced pilots of the Indian Air Force. After his selection, he underwent training as a cosmonaut at YURI GAGARIN CENTRE in the USSR, where he applied himself with total devotion and dedication and won acclaim from Soviet Space experts. Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma completed a most arduous training schedule, with distinction and with exceptional professionalism. | ||||
Reference: | Gazette of India, 19th May 1984 - No.57 - Pres/85 dated 7th May 1985 | ||||